(Matthew 25)
Not very long ago an old, blind man in Africa spent the first night of his life under a mosquito net. The net can no longer protect him from mosquitoes carrying elephantitis, the disease which blinded him, but at least he might sleep more comfortably. He received the mosquito net from a campaign against malaria and elephantitis being spearheaded by former President Jimmy Carter. The campaign does not have a lot of money; nevertheless, it works to relieve the suffering of the world’s poorest people.
The Scripture readings today call us to help our neighbor. Jesus extends the concept of neighbor beyond those who live next store and beyond one’s country. He intends that his followers assist the poorest of people on his account. He says that on the last day, he will judge us according to the standard: “Whatever you did for one of least of these least brothers of mine, you did to me.”
During Lent we want to give special attention to assisting the poor. Some parishes promote the use of “rice bowls” in homes to collect money for aid to impoverished nations. Toward the end of Lent there will be a special collection for the Bishops’ Overseas Appeal. Contributing generously will surely assist us in gaining a favorable judgment on the last day.
